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Marko Law Firm

Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Taylor, MI

Taylor Bicycle Accident Lawyer

To Stay Safe, Cyclists Need to Always Ride Defensively

As the amount of bicyclists grows, the number of accidents involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like a lot of other car crashes, a large number of them happen at intersections. Many of these collisions are the result of motorists who appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They fail to look out for bicyclists when making turns or driving through intersections. These types of accidents are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are endangered by quickly changing traffic signals that may turn red before they fully cross the intersection.

What Are the Most Frequent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

Several of the most common causes of bicycle crashes include:

Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections

Some motorists may not be familiar with the laws of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the street. This lack of understanding can be especially hazardous when a cyclist and a car are sharing the roadway while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most hazardous places for vehicles and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main locations where collisions leading to devastating injuries occur.

A motorist failing to observe bicyclists when driving

Motorists not seeing a cyclist on the road is a common cause of a crash involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists need to take precautions to reduce this very preventable cause of bike collisions.Cyclists can utilize safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help reduce the possibility of a crash. Likewise, drivers need to be aware that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be especially cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a lot of bike commuters.

Drivers encroaching into bike lanes

Even while riding within the confines of a bike lane, bicyclists must be alert at all times for distracted and negligent motorists. Vehicles can accidentally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of inattention. This can possibly cause a bicyclist to sustain major injuries.

Bicycle doorings when a motorist or passenger doesn't pay attention while opening a car door

As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a serious danger to bicyclists, particularly in urban environments. These incidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can result in catastrophic injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the best way for a bicyclist to avoid being the victim of a dooring.

Distracted drivers hitting a bicyclist

Distracted driving is one of the most significant concerns for roadway safety that we face today. As cell phones have become a major part of our everyday lives, many individuals find it hard to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a threat to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians because they have almost zero protection if they are struck. Somebody who is distracted by texting, eating, or a variety of other reasons may veer into bike lanes. Also, they might not notice a bicyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a bicyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big concern that it's been identified as the leading cause of bicycle crashes involving motor vehicles.

Motorists neglecting to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots

When a driver that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not fully assess their surroundings, it can result in serious repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out due to their smaller size and their low noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are starting to lessen these kinds of accidents. But motorists can not rely on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.

How Can I Prevent a Bike Accident?

Following appropriate safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Taylor is the most effective way to avoid accidents and injuries. When riding in traffic, cyclists need to do the following:

  • Obey the rules of the road
  • Assume that vehicles and motorists will fail to see you
  • Provide vehicles a wide berth
  • Regularly yield to motor vehicles under certain conditions when you don't know if a driver has spotted you
  • You should have proper protective gear

How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?

  • Wear a properly-fitting helmet
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing
  • Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
  • Follow all posted traffic laws
  • Flight with the circulation of traffic
  • Use bike lanes whenever possible
  • Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition
  • Remain alert at all times and avoid distracted riding

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

If you get hurt in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:

  • Call 911 and file a police report. Do not let a driver talk you into not making a police report. That can lead to issues later on.
  • Exchange information with the driver that hit you. Photograph of his or her driver's license and insurance policy card.
  • Take multiple pictures of your bike, the vehicle that hit you, and the scene of the accident.
  • Get witness information from anybody that happened to see the accident. Don't miss this step, as police officers do not always record witness details and you might need it later.
  • If needed, get medical attention immediately.
  • Get in touch with a knowledgeable bike accident lawyer in Taylor. Do this before calling the other side's insurance company.

Contact a Taylor Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Marko Law

If you suffer an injury in an accident with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you should consult with a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. They will help determine whether you might have a valid personal injury or wrongful death case against a negligent driver. At Marko Law, our experienced bicycle accident attorneys assist bicyclists in pursuing claims against negligent drivers who have caused serious injuries. We understand how to receive all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a remedy using other methods.

Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation

If you are ready to start your case or need more information about a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Taylor, Michigan, contact Marko Law Firm today. Let us represent you as you seek justice and compensation for your pain and damages. Call (313) 777-7LAW today to get a free consultation or visit our website: MarkoLaw.com to get more information.

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